Back in 2013 and 2014, NASSCO entered into agreements with two companies, APT and SEA-Vista LLC, to design and build eight 50,000 dwt LNG-conversion-ready product tankers with a barrel cargo capacity of 330,000 each.

Seven vessels from the batch were delivered to their owners, with Palmetto State expected to be handed over to APT in June.

The 37,530 gross-ton Palmetto State and its sister ships are said to be the most fuel-efficient tankers to service the Jones Act trade. With an ECO design, the 610-foot-long tankers offer 33 percent increased fuel efficiency and cleaner shipping options.